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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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A comforting and easy dump-and-bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole, combining tender chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara sauce, all baked in one dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 oz) package uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 jar, 24 oz)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ lbs raw chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional: Fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and raw chicken; stir until evenly combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Remove the foil, stir the casserole, and sprinkle the mozzarella, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  6. Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown.
  7. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs if desired before serving.

Notes

For a firmer pasta texture, consider cooking the penne al dente. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving.

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